DLA and amputation

Parva

Hi chaps, I'm just wondering if anyone knew whether a complete entire leg amputation would entitle that person to the highest rate of DLA? I basically went on my hols and broke my femur due to what turned out to be cancer in the bone and tissue.

As a result of this I am still hospitalised having had my right leg amputated including part of my pelvis. I'm now receiving physio before I return home to teach me hwo handle my new life. I'll be looking for some sort of desk job once I'm sorted but in the meqntime I was wondering if anyone had an idea on the benefits side of things?

Thanks.

Lady_gaga

To receive DLA of any rate you need to have had care/mobility needs for at least 3 months and expect to have them for at least the next 6 months. I don't think you can appply whilst in hospital (someone will correct me if I'm mistaken) for the highest rate of DLA you will need this care/mobility help night and day

Parva

Yep, I was quite aware of that, my apologies for not having mentioned it. Let's assume I've been home for 3 months.

midnight_express

It would depend on your mobility and care needs. Best bet is to apply and find out.

Oldernotwiser

I would expect the idea of physio would be to minimise your mobility needs so you may need to see how successful an adjustment you're making.

Good luck.

Sixer

http://www.dwp.gov.uk/publications/specialist%2Dguides/medical%2Dconditions/a%2Dz%2Dof%2Dmedical%2Dconditions/amputations/

It seems likely you will be entitled to some level of DLA, particularly for mobility, given the high level of your amputation.

I wish you the best in adjusting.

Polmop

Sorry cant offer any advice but thinking of you.
Take care

salau2

You may be entitled to DLA and or ESA (subject to criteria). For automatic Higher Rate DLA mobility you must "have had both legs amputated (or missing from birth) at or above the ankle".

You can sumbit a claim for DLA and will have one month to appeal. Remember it can be argued that a person who has a leg amputated may be unable to walk but might be enabled to walk by the use of artificial aids such as a false limb or crutches. Moreover, Lees v SoS (1985) stated that someone is unable to walk if they cannot use their own legs to walk. For DLA higher rate mobility you must be unable to or virtually unable to walk.

emmell

If I were you op I'd apply for it, you have nothing to lose, if you don't get it awarded you're no worse off. Also apply to your local council to see if you qualify for a Blue Badge, you don't need to be on DLA to get the badge.
Good luck with your recovery.
ML.